“All the evidence on climate change suggests our response must be stronger and faster than previously thought. This report shows that the automotive industry can, and should, do more.”

Greenpeace EU transport policy advisor Franziska Achterberg says: “EU industry ministers are right to see clean vehicle technology as a way of maintaining the competitiveness of the European car sector.

“They should recognize that the single most important EU measure to achieve this is ambitious legislation. Stronger fuel efficiency standards will help the sector reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining a level playing field.”